Clinical Instructorsʼ Self-Perceptions of Competence in Teaching Core Content Areas of Curriculum to DPT Students: Implications for Academic Programs

Abstract

Background and Purpose. The purpose of this study was to investigate the following questions: 1) What are clinical instructors' (CIs') perceptions of their current and desired levels of competence in knowledge and skills in core areas of the DPT curriculum, and teaching methods and skills when instructing DPT students? And, 2) Are there associations between CIs' perceptions and professional degree status, as well as CI credential status? Subjects. A sample of convenience of clinical affiliation sites from New York and New Jersey (N=480) was compiled from lists of 3 collaborating academic institutions. Center coordinators of clinical education (CCCEs) were sent a letter inviting clinical faculty to participate in this study. Questionnaires were mailed to 828 CIs at 181 clinical sites. Methods. A questionnaire was constructed to collect demographic data, ie, CIs' perceptions of their knowledge and skill in core areas of the DPT curriculum and in teaching methods used to instruct DPT students. Participants were asked to self-assess both their current and desired levels of competence using a 5-point Likert scale. Results. A total of 497 CIs and CCCEs completed surveys for a response rate of 60%, which represented 80% of the clinical sites in the sample. For every item, there was a significant difference between CIs' perceptions of current and desired knowledge and skills, such that the level of knowledge and skills should be higher. Respondents with a DPT were more likely to report current knowledge and skills as “more than adequate” and less likely to report current knowledge and skills as “less than adequate.” Discussion and Conclusion. Clinical faculty desire professional development in core curricula knowledge and teaching skills in order to be clinical instructors in DPT programs. An understanding of their perspectives is essential for academic programs to most effectively meet these needs.